By Deirdre Sullivan
Small is the new big. But if you think a tiny home would crimp your way of life, check out these videos. We found three weensy abodes that feel like much larger homes. The trick is that each micro-living place maximizes space to compliment the resident's lifestyle.
1. A home that doesn't skimp on traditional elements
This 500-sq.-ft. home was built in Vancouver by SmallWorks Studios. Despite its diminutive size, this mini-mansion was designed with plenty of traditional elements that make it feel like a much larger home. It packs a sleek small kitchen, a bedroom balcony, and a one-car garage.
Plus, its tiny footprint helps it be energy efficient.
In Vancouver, a home similar to this starts at around $200,000 and takes 16 weeks to build.
2. A place built for entertaining
A woman in Barcelona remodeled her tiny apartment so that she can have parties.
Although her bedroom eats up a quarter of her 128-square-foot dwelling, she didn't like the idea of installing a loft or Murphy bed to create more floor space.
So, with the help of a few clever storage built-ins that concealed extra chairs and an expandable kitchen table, the Spanish hostess is able to seat 12 for dinner.
FYI, when the party moves into the living room, she uses foldout cardboard stools to create more seating.
3. A man cave that includes more than a few conversation pieces
J. Michael Moore (who happens to be 6-foot-4) filled his vibrant, 225-square-foot home with furniture and kickknacks that he likes to look at.
Moore avoided using a monochromatic paint scheme and went with color blocking -- a method that pairs opposites on the color wheel. Although the colors are bold, color blocking helps tie all his stuff together so his space doesn't feel cluttered or overwhelming.
A loft bed and moveable furniture helps Moore maximize his square footage and lets him rearrange the space to serve many purposes.
This story was originally published on HouseLogic.
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